Pulwama intensifies fight against drug abuse through ongoing panchayat-level outreach
Pulwama: Continuing its proactive efforts under the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, district administration Pulwama today scaled up its Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaign by conducting a series of impactful awareness programmes across various panchayats in all blocks of the district.
The awareness drives witnessed enthusiastic participation from officials of key departments including Health, Education, Social Welfare, Rural Development, and Police, alongside Panchayat representatives, Women Self Help Groups (SHGs), civil society members, students, and youth from local communities.
During the programmes, resource persons delivered focused sessions on the causes, triggers, and social consequences of drug abuse, highlighting how substance dependence adversely affects not only individuals but families and society at large. They stressed the importance of preventive education, open communication within families, and peer support in addressing early signs of addiction.
Medical experts and counsellors from the Health and Social Welfare departments explained the physiological and psychological impacts of drug abuse, common symptoms of substance dependence, and the availability of drug de-addiction and rehabilitation facilities within the district. They encouraged families to seek early help without stigma and underscored the significance of timely intervention in recovery.
Participants were urged to become vigilant and informed citizens, to play an active role in safeguarding their communities, and to promote a drug-free lifestyle through peer engagement and community dialogue.
To ensure wide reach, IEC materials such as posters, leaflets, and booklets were distributed during the sessions. These materials contain key information on recognising symptoms, helpline numbers, and step-by-step guides to accessing counselling and treatment services.
Besides, a collective pledge was also taken by the participants, affirming their resolve to build a drug-free and healthy environment in their respective communities.
The IEC campaign under Nasha Mukht J&K Abhiyan will continue with similar activities planned across both rural and urban areas and educational institutes, with the aim of ensuring that every household is made aware of the menace and that affected individuals are guided towards timely help and rehabilitation.
